Michael Drudy is executive director with Railway Systems Suppliers, Inc. in Jacksonville, Florida.
Briefly state what your job entails.
I manage the day-to-day operation of Railway Systems Suppliers, Inc. (RSSI), and coordinate the annual RSSI C&S Exhibition.
What type of meeting did you hold in Omaha?
The 58th annual RSSI C&S Exhibition, which was attended by 189 exhibitors who supply signal, communications and IT products and services to North American rail and transit companies.
Approximately 1,500 people were in attendance.
Was anyone particularly helpful in executing your event?
Erin Brungardt, director convention services for Visit Omaha; Molly Williamson, senior event manager at the Omaha Hilton; and Betsy Ronspies, event coordinator for CenturyLink Center Omaha.
What did your attendees seem to enjoy the most about Omaha?
The hotel and convention center facility, including the quality of the food at both venues, and the restaurants and bars within walking distance of the convention center. It’s a great railroad town and Omaha people are friendly and helpful.
Are there any group-friendly experiences that you would recommend for groups meeting there?
Restaurants and stores in the Old Market Arts and Entertainment District, Union Pacific Railroad Museum, and we were fortunate that the Big 10 baseball tournament was taking place while we were in town.
How does Omaha compare to other cities where you have hosted meetings?
Favorably when compared to Minneapolis, Cincinnati, Nashville and Ft. Worth.
Would you return/recommend Omaha to other meeting planners?
Yes, definitely. It’s centrally located in the country, spring weather is good and there are great restaurants. Most important would be the quality of the facilities, ease of accessing the convention center from the hotels and the cooperation of the convention center and hotel managers.
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